What is L-Tyrosine?

L-Tyrosine is actually a non-essential amino acid, which means that the body can manufacture it naturally, without having to rely on it coming from dietary sources. Just because we can manufacture it naturally however, this does not mean that we won’t benefit by increasing the amounts that are present within our bodies. This amino acid is found in each and every cell within the human body, and it plays a number vital roles in our health and well-being, and not just those that happen to be related to the health of the brain either. In actual fact, over the years, as well as proving very beneficial for our mental health and well-being, L-Tyrosine has also been found to help increase a person’s muscle mass and post-workout recovery rates in the process.

How does L-Tyrosine work?

L-Tyrosine works in a number of different ways, and can therefore provide a number of different benefits to the human body, which we’ll be looking at in just a moment. To begin with, Tyrosine helps the body to manufacture vital neurotransmitters that help to regulate your mood, concentration, and focus levels. For example, one of these neurotransmitters is dopamine, which is a chemical that helps us to feel happy and relaxed. Other transmitters include epinephrine and norepinephrine, which help regulate stress responses. Another vital role associated with L-Tyrosine, is that it plays a vital role in protein synthesis, in which the body synthesizes new muscle proteins to replace old or damaged ones. In total, around 20 amino acids are required for protein synthesis to occur, and Tyrosine is one of those 20 and is one of the most important. Protein synthesis is not only essential for muscle growth and repair, it is also vital for the growth and regeneration of new cells.

What are the main benefits of L-Tyrosine?

There are many different benefits associated with L-Tyrosine supplements, so let’s now take a look at some of the most prominent examples. These include:

Improved mental health

As mentioned before, L-Tyrosine plays a vital role in the production of neurotransmitters within the brain, which help to regulate our mood. Dopamine for example, is a neurotransmitter that helps us to feel happy, relaxed, focussed, and content, and so the happier we feel, the less likely we will be to suffer from mental health disorders such as stress or depression.

Increased muscle mass

Another key benefit of L-Tyrosine, is the fact that it has been proven to increase a person’s muscle mass, due to the fact that it plays a vital role in protein synthesis. When muscle tissues become damaged and destroyed when we exercise and workout, they need to be rebuilt and replaced by bigger and stronger tissues, which is what happens via protein synthesis. If protein synthesis does not take place however, the muscles cannot be replaced or rebuilt.

Increased post workout

Not only can protein synthesis help assist with muscle growth, it can also assist with muscle repair, and it can therefore allow you to recover from a workout much quicker than usual. L-Tyrosine supplementation can help keep energy levels sky high, whilst reducing DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) in the process.

Other benefits include:

Increased muscle mass

Improved mental health

Improved mental clarity and focus

Reduced risk of genererative diseases such as Alzheimer's or Dementia

Increased recovery times

Better mood

Healthy nerve function

Healthy thyroid function

Healthy metabolism

And more...

How and when should it be consumed?

For times when a mental boost is required, or for simply helping to enhance mental health and function in general, experts recommend consuming around 0.5g – 2g of L-Tyrosine per day, split into two separate dosages. Dosages should be at least four hours apart from one another, so many people will consume one serving in the morning, and one in the evening. Simply add the desired amount to your chosen beverage, give a good shake, and enjoy.

Health Canada Recommended Dose (powder): Adults: 2 Scoop(s) 1 - 2 time(s) per day. Take up to one hour before, or during periods of physical stress.

L-Tyrosine VS L-Dopa

Although very similar to one another, L-Tyrosine and L-Dopa do still differ slightly. L-Dopa for example, is a chemical that is required by the body to produce dopamine, which as we know, is a neurotransmitter that helps elevate a person’s mood. L-Dopa is actually manufactured from L-Tyrosine, and the main differences are the fact that L-Tyrosine plays a key role in the production of various other neurotransmitters, as well as protein synthesis, whereas L-Dopa is based predominantly around the production of dopamine.

What can it be stacked with?

For those of you looking for a nootropic stack that benefits the brain and your mental health, L-tyrosine can be stacked with 5-HTP, as well as other natural mood enhancers, such as St John’s Wort. For bodybuilding benefits however, L-Tyrosine is best when stacked with Creatine, L-Glutamine, whey protein, Dextrose and L-Leucine.

L-Tyrosine Ingredients

Per Scoop

Potential side effects

Always speak to your doctor before using any new supplements, and discontinue use if you notice any negative side effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use this supplement, as not enough is known about its safety. Although very safe, some users have reported the following mild side effects:

Overactive thyroid function

Mild stomach cramps

Slight llight headedness

Cautions and Warnings

Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are following a low protein diet. Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

L-Tyrosine Reviews

Very effective, cheap and get the job done. Use with caffeine (200mg) and ALCAR (1.5g or both ALCAR and L-Tyrosine) so a great pre-workout base. Add in your favorite BCAA, Creatine, BA and the like to fit your style.

Verified Buyer

l-tyrosine (1lb)

paul
on 29/12/2012orillia

simply the best price for this quality product.

Verified Buyer

Pretty good supplement

Devin
on 27/11/2012Cookstown

I thought I'd try this supplement out based on recommendations from a forum. I take 1/2tsp about 15 minutes before going to the gym, in a shake stacked with other powders. Both my girlfriend and I find that this significantly improves our mood and focus and motivation at the gym. Definitely recommended.